From Zi Chun Tea Co

Premium quality Assam black tea produced in the famous Taiwan black tea growing region of Nantou county. We have two varieties of this specialty tea to choose from.

Item code: YA-BT4004-T and YA‐BT404A‐T
Also known as: Taiwan black tea
Harvest Date: Summer 2013
Growing Region: Yuchih township, Sun Moon lake area, Nantou county, Taiwan
Elevation: 1000 m
Varietal: Assam (TRES No. 8)
Grade: AAA
Farming Methods: Hand picked, low pesticide
Production: Fully oxidized with a light roast, appearance of long twisted strands of full leaf
Other notes:
It may come as a surprise to many tea enthusiasts that consider Taiwan only for its magnificent oolongs, but Taiwan has also a long history of producing black teas that date back to the early 1920′s. Then under Japanese rule, Yuchih township, situated on the shores of the scenic Sun Moon Lake of central Taiwan, was chosen for it’s perfect climate and soil for the growing of Assamica tea bushes. The Japanese objective was then to compete with the striving British commerce that ruled over the trade of black tea. They could never compete in yield, but, surprisingly enough, the quality of these Taiwanese black teas attracted such attention that it sold very well in New York and London. With the demise of the Japanese at the conclusion of WW II, black tea virtually disappeared from the island. Today, one can easily experience why this tea was successful through the revival of this heritage Assam tea.
Refined by the Taiwan Research and Extension Station, this TRES No. 8 Assam strand presents itself as a large, wonderfully curled and lustrous full leaf; reminiscent of the best of Baozhongs. A wonderfully fruity aroma emanates from the cup that evokes stewed cherries and apricot jam. In the cup, one experiences a round, fruity sweetness that is quite heady and very refreshing. A warm velvety body satisfies the palate and withstands the test of a dash of milk.
Very exuberant and satisfying, a “must try” tea for all English style tea drinkers… and oolong drinkers alike!